‘American Idol’ finalist running for Congress

Clay Aiken, American Idol runner-up and fan favorite, is running for Congress in his home state of North Carolina.

Aiken announced his candidacy Wednesday for the Democratic nomination for the seat currently held by Rep. Renee Ellmers. Aiken re-introduces himself to voters with an emotional ad detailing his troubled childhood, his experiences as a special ed teacher and his time spent working with UNICEF.

Aiken says Washington is dysfunctional and that he wants to focus on jobs, the economy and education.